The mission of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is to enable the safe, reliable, and efficient movement of people and goods for a strong America, now and in the future. FRA accomplishes this mission primarily through issuance, implementation, and enforcement of safety regulations; selective investment to develop the rail network across the country; and research and technology development. 

Recognizing the associated scale and complexity of improving the nation’s rail network, FRA is also working with other agencies and rail stakeholders to develop comprehensive strategies for accomplishing this. The focus is on strategically maintaining current rail services and infrastructure, expanding and improving the rail network to accommodate growing travel and freight demand, and providing leadership in national and regional system planning and development.